Co-parenting can be daunting, especially when emotions run high and communication breaks down. For many parents navigating shared custody or post-divorce parenting, finding common ground becomes a challenge.
Fortunately, there are resources and tools available to help parents work together in a healthy and structured way. Taking an in-depth look at these solutions can potentially help co-parents to build a more peaceful co-parenting relationship.
Guardian Ad Litem: A child’s advocate
A Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) is a neutral party appointed by the court to represent the child’s best interests in custody disputes. GALs:
- Conduct investigations
- Interview parents, teachers and the child
- Present findings to the court to guide custody arrangements
Their primary focus is on helping to ensure that the child’s emotional, physical and educational needs are prioritized in high-conflict child custody cases.
Parenting coordinator: A guide for ongoing disputes
Parenting coordinators (PCs) act as mediators and decision-makers in co-parenting situations where parents need ongoing help managing disagreements. They are often court-appointed and assist in resolving day-to-day conflicts, such as scheduling and logistics, reducing the need for constant legal interventions.
Mediator: Resolving conflicts peacefully
Mediators are neutral third parties who help parents negotiate and come to agreements about:
- Parenting plans
- Custody arrangements
- Parenting disputes
Unlike a GAL or parenting coordinator, mediators do not make decisions but rather facilitate discussions to help parents arrive at mutually acceptable solutions.
Counseling: Strengthening communication skills
Family counseling can help parents and children adjust to new family structures. On the other hand, individual counseling provides each parent with the tools to:
- Manage emotions
- Reduce conflict
- Communicate effectively
By addressing underlying issues like anger, resentment or unresolved conflict, parents are better equipped to work together for their children’s well-being.
Co-parenting apps: Staying organized and reducing miscommunication
Technology can also play a key role in improving co-parenting. For example, Our Family Wizard app offers:
- A shared calendar
- Messaging system
- An expense tracker
It provides a secure platform where parents can communicate without misinterpretation, as messages are logged and cannot be altered. Apps like 2houses focus on:
- Scheduling
- Budgeting
- Sharing important information like medical records and school events
It simplifies communication and reduces the need for back-and-forth emails or texts. Other apps, such as Talking Parents or Cozi, provide additional tools for co-parenting families, including secure communication and shared task management features.
Co-parenting is rarely easy, but parents can navigate their challenges more effectively with compassionate legal support and the right tools. Whether adults are in need of professional help or just a better way to manage communication, there are many solutions available to help co-parents build a healthier co-parenting relationship.
